Page 21 - Fine Japanese Art March 27, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Okimono

14 | AN EXCELLENT TALL WOOD NETSUKE
OF A SOUTH SEA ISLANDER
Unsigned
Japan, first half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

The gleefully laughing foreigner is depicted with very long arms and
legs, reminiscent of Ashinaga and Tenaga, who were inhabitants of
the southern islands. The islander is dressed only in a skirt, a drum
is attached to his belt and the he holds a gnarly staff in one hand
and a drumstick in the other. His trifurcated beard is long and finely
carved, as is his hair, which extends down to his upper back. Large,
worn himotoshi through the back.
HEIGHT 12.9 cm

Condition: Very good condition, with minor expected wear. Some
wear to the himotoshi. The left foot with a restoration to the tip.
Provenance: British collection.
Literature comparison: A similar wood netsuke, undoubtedly carved
by the same hand, is in Henri. L Joly (1966) W. L Behrens Collection:
Netsuke and Japanese carvings, Part 1, no. 813, illustrated on pl. XV.
Estimate EUR 25.000,-
Starting price EUR 12.500,-

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